Wigan chairman
Dave Whelan insists he would pull his team out of the Premier League if promotion and relegation were scrapped.

Dave Whelan has threatened to pull Wigan out of the Premier League if relegation and promotion are scrapped (Pic: Getty)

League Managersâ Association chief executive Richard Bevan has claimed the American and Asian owners of top-flight sides are keen on a franchising model â although, even if clubs voted in favour of the move, Football Association permission would also be required.

The idea has already been described as âsuicideâ by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and Whelan said: âItâs the most stupid suggestion Iâve ever heard.

‘If it was to happen I would resign Wigan from the Premier League and go back and play in the Football League.â

Now Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has added his voice to the opposition.

âIf there is something that makes the Premier League so proud, itâs its established rules over the past, the history there has been in English football,â he said.

âThat must be taken into account very seriously. I wouldnât do any kind of changes.â